THE ANGEL'S STORY.
7
Suddenly an unseen Presence Checked those constant moaning cries,Stilled the little heart's quick fluttering, Raised those blue and wondering eyes,Fixed on some mysterious vision, With a startled sweet surprise.
For a radiant angel hovered, Smiling, o'er the little bed;White his raiment, from his shoulders Snowy dove-like pinions spread,And a starlike light was shining In a Glory round his head.
While, with tender love, the angel, Leaning o'er the little nest,In his arms the sick child folding, Laid him gently on his breast,Sobs and wailings told the mother That her darling was at rest.
So the angel, slowly rising, Spread his wings, and through the airBore the child, and, while he held him To his heart with loving care,Placed a branch of crimson roses Tenderly beside him there.
While the child, thus clinging, floated Towards the mansions of the Blest,Gazing from his shining guardian To the flowers upon his breast,Thus the angel spake, still smiling On the little heavenly guest:
